one-dimensional

adjective

one-di·​men·​sion·​al

ˈwən-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl

 

 also  -dī-

1

: having one dimension

A straight line is one-dimensional.

The one-dimensional sequence of amino acids is the primary structure.

—Douglas R. Hofstadter

2

: lacking depth or complexity : superficial

To the audience, the term "sitcom" connoted a lot of one-dimensional stories and characters.

—Bob Fisher

one-dimensionality

ˈwən-də-ˌmen(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

 also  -dī-

noun

one-di​mension​ally adverb

a one-dimensionally portrayed character

The pixels were arranged one-dimensionally. [=in a straight line]

Synonyms

• facile
• shallow
• skin-deep
• superficial

Examples of one-dimensional in a Sentence

a one-dimensional analysis of a novel that has a lot to say about personal courage

Recent Examples on the Web

Rather than relying on one-dimensional indicators, flourishing introduces multi-dimensional metrics that account for the complexity of the human experience. —Amy Blankson, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

The Prohibition-era beverage has become even more of a juggernaut in recent years, and the IRL trend has led to a one-dimensional version. —Leah Prinzivalli, Allure, 28 Apr. 2025

Not only does this one-dimensional mindset lack broader nuance and context. —Andrew Reiner, Baltimore Sun, 20 Apr. 2025

The Michigan product doesn't ever figure to be much of a force as a pass-rusher, though, and teams may not want to invest a first-round pick on a one-dimensional player. —Bryce Lazenby, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for one-dimensional

• multidimensional
• unidimensional
• attentional
• conventional
• dimensional
• extensional
• intensional
• intentional
• interventional
• nonconventional
• nondimensional
• unconventional

Kids Definition

one-dimensional

adjective

1

: having one dimension

2

: stereotyped